I've had a .32 Special for a backup for years. With handloaded and factory loaded jacketed bullets, it's got a little more oomph than a 30-30. I shot a huge black bear and quite a few deer with mine, as well as numerous rabbits & squirrels during small game season. All critters shot, dropped quickly. I bought a bullet mould and started casting my own bullets. I've got a light load with pistol powder that will put a cast bullet at 25 yd.'s in the same spot as a jacketed bullet at 100 yd. Experience hunting squirrels and rabbits makes for great training for deer hunting. The slower 1:16 twist gives great accuracy with cast bullets, with no lead buildup or jacketed bullets(hence "Special"). It's a great rifle.